1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 2012 Acura TSX

To start off, 2012 Acura TSX is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Acura TSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Acura TSX (201 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (102 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Acura TSX should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Acura TSX weights approximately 476 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Acura TSX, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Acura TSX (230 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (167 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Acura TSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. 2012 Acura TSX has automatic transmission and 1981 Mazda Cosmo has manual transmission. 1981 Mazda Cosmo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Acura TSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Mazda Cosmo 2012 Acura TSX
Make Mazda Acura
Model Cosmo TSX
Year Released 1981 2012
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1970 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 102 HP 201 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 167 Nm 230 Nm
Torque RPM 3300 RPM 4300 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1098 kg 1574 kg
Vehicle Length 4670 mm 4714 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1839 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1438 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2708 mm